: We just recently move into our new home. We have a recirculating pump on the hot water heater. It is a 2 story, approx. 3100 sq. ft. I had the plumbing contractor replace the first pump, as it wasn't working. The new pump is a few days old, and doesn't work that great at all. The contractor said this is the best it will do. So much for the "instant hot water" that they said it would give.....The closest sink to the hot water heater takes 25 seconds, and the farthest faucet takes 1 1/2 minutes. I thought that the hot water was constantly cycling through the plumbing. Am I right? Or is does this sound normal?